A chord

A major

C4

A

C5

C#

E

Want it in context? Open A on the full piano.

Notes

A
R
C#
3
E
5

Formula: R – 3 – 5

A inversions

The same notes, with a different note in the bass.

Root position A

C4

A

C5

C#

E

1st inversion A/C#

C5

C#

E

A

C6

2nd inversion A/E

C5

E

A

C6

C#

More A chords

Major chords in other keys

FAQ

What notes are in the A chord?

The A major chord (A) has 3 notes: A, C# and E.

How do you play A on the piano?

Put your right hand on A, C# and E, starting from A. A common fingering for three-note chords is thumb (1), middle finger (3) and little finger (5).

What is the formula of a major chord?

R – 3 – 5 (in semitones from the root: 0, 4, 7).